The following is based on a press release from the Kansas Crewed and Uncrewed Aerial Systems Association (KCUASA).
The Kansas Crewed and Uncrewed Aerial Systems Association (KCUASA), in collaboration with Kansas State University and FirePoint Innovation Center at Wichita State University, announced on August 20, 2026 the launch of the Purple UAS Certification Portal — a new certification pathway for unmanned aircraft systems supporting public safety missions.
Purple UAS is built around law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR), emergency management, disaster response, and critical infrastructure operations. According to KCUASA, the program can recognize qualifying prior federal certifications and evaluation activity — including Blue UAS and, where applicable, Green UAS evidence — to reduce redundant review rather than requiring manufacturers to repeat evaluations already completed. KCUASA is explicit that recognition of prior evidence "is not automatic reciprocity" and that Purple UAS maintains an independent certification decision.
"Conceived and designed with public safety in mind, the Purple UAS certification will be a valuable resource for those interested in purpose-built and FCC-compliant UAS," said Roger Powers, Executive Director of KCUASA.
"We are proud of our partnership with KCUASA in participating in the Purple UAS certification program. We look forward to supporting our UAS OEMs interested in supporting public safety missions," said Troy Harding, Director of the School of Integrated Studies at Kansas State University.
"We are excited to be part of the Purple UAS certification program. Through our independent, non-profit entity, FirePoint, focused on the Defense Industry, we hope to accelerate the availability of compliant, quality UAS solutions through the program," said Steve Cyrus, Executive Director of FirePoint Innovation Center at Wichita State University.
Manufacturers, public safety agencies, and industry partners can learn more at kcuasa.org/purpleuas.